Imports top bets at Sta. Ana

In the absence of a serious contender from the local ranks, Aussie-bred imports are expected to dominate today’s running of the P500,000 Philracom "Open" Stakes Race, the first major racing event of the year slated at the Santa Ana Park.

Bannered by stakes-performed imports Ouzo, Time Gentleman and Buena Sera, the 1,800-meter race launches the Philippine Racing Commission’s yearlong stakes calendar.

Despite the entry of celebrated imports, racing fans seem to fancy the chances of promising track newcomer Treeline, a game runner-up finisher to multiple stakes winning filly Material Maker off her debut start last month at Santa Ana. — Ramon Romualdez